June 29th, 2009
Apple makes it official: Steve Jobs is back to work
The word out of Cupertino this morning is that Apple CEO Steve Jobs has returned to work, following a six-month medical leave announced in January.
We kind of knew that already last week after reports of Jobs being spotted around the Cupertino campus - but now, it’s official, according to a Bloomberg report. Company spokesman Steve Dowling said he will work at the office a few days a week and the remaining time from home. 
Last week, Jobs’ doctor said - with Jobs’ permission - that he underwent a liver transplant, is recovering well and has an excellent prognosis. The doctor’s statement confirmed an earlier Wall Street Journal report about the transplant.
The debate over an individual’s right to privacy vs. public’s right to know has taken center stage as news of Steve Jobs’ health conditions continued to surface. Some argue that he’s a private individual and that his medical condition is of no one’s concern. Others say his ability to run the company can be compromised if he’s ill and that any developments related to his condition are material facts that should be disclosed to shareholders.
Also see: Jobs recovering from liver transplant; re-ignites debate over privacy rights
Last week, I was part of this debate in an NPR’s Forum show dedicated to the topic of corporate transparency. An audio archive of the show is available below. It’s an hour-long segment so you’ll want to settle in to listen.
Sam Diaz is a senior editor at ZDNet. See his full profile and disclosure of his industry affiliations.
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